Each time a racing ambulance passes my vehicle, I whisper a prayer because I know that an individual and a family have had their lives changed in a second. I don’t remember ever having taken a trip in an ambulance—until last Monday. The above conclusion really is true. A trip in an ambulance does change your life.
Sitting here in the hospital at 4 o’clock in the morning, I am thinking about the last couple of days and have some reflections on this experience of ambulance and hospital. As of this moment, we have not fully isolated the problem, but it does not seem to be life threatening. Although while the incident was taking place, I certainly felt the situation was very critical. But praise the Lord, I am in the best physical condition I’ve been in for years due to nutrition and exercise.
I give thanks for first responders who are efficient and effective. They know their business and take charge quickly to ensure the best possible results. I do not recommend ambulance rides, but kudos to all those EMTs who do a difficult job day in and day out with great expertise.
Medical science has made unbelievable strides. I believe that all medical advances are gifts from God. The medicines and treatment options now available boggle the mind. Gifted men and women who expertly serve in the medical field have so much at their disposal today. Doctors and nurses have given me the best possible care.
It was a quick observation as to how blessed I am to have family, friends, fellow workers and fellow servants of the Lord. Five minutes into the State Evangelism Conference, I was in need of medical attention. Those attending the conference and multiple others have prayed for me continually. My staff has done everything necessary to meet every need. Friends have prayed, called, and stood by our side. My church staff and church family have ministered to us as well.
Children of God, how blessed we are! I cannot imagine going through tough times without the people of God to surround me. Yet, people up and down these hospital corridors are alone and have few who are concerned. As followers of Christ, we have a wonderful family who cares and takes action when we are in need.
I discovered something during this little episode. The faces you most want to see are those of your wife and children. When my little Osage Princess walked through the door, I felt so much better. For more than 43 years, she has been my anchor in the storms, my encourager, my nurse and my greatest prayer warrior. To have my children and Polla standing with me and praying meant all the world to me.
These times are opportunities to take big gulps of God’s love and grace. There is a deeper sense of His presence. I am confident that ALL HEALING is of the Lord, although He may choose to use doctors, nurses and medicine. I am very thankful for them. In the end, He is the Great Physician. He is my help in times of trouble. He can be trusted, and He will see us through the trials of this life. When the time comes to move Home, He will carry us there.
Men make plans, but these plans are ultimately in the hands of God. My life is extremely busy with each day filled to capacity. When the Lord allows an event to change the direction of our lives, the number of meetings to attend or tasks to perform doesn’t matter. Surrender to His will and way is the order of the day. And while the show must go on, it does not always have to go on with us. Ultimately, that is just fine—I trust Him.
Anthony L. Jordan is executive director-treasurer of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma.
